By Chris Davie

The 34-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season, but the defender insists he wants to continue the club's winning mentality after Sir Alex Ferguson retires.

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has indicated he would sign a contract extension with the club.

The 34-year-old's current deal with the Premier League champion expires at the end of the campaign. Sir Alex Ferguson said earlier this month that the center back, who scored the game-winning goal in Ferguson's last match at Old Trafford on Sunday, has had his "best season at the club" and hinted a new contract will be offered.

"Manchester United has a bright future," Ferdinand told MUTV. "The manager has left the club in great health, and we are looking forward. We have a great number of good young players who are eager to win things and be successful and work hard.

"That is what the manager has instilled in these players. The work ethic has to continue if we are going to be successful. I would like to be part of that."

Ferdinand admits he was surprised at Ferguson's decision to end his 26-year reign at Old Trafford at the end of the season but insists the club must continue the Scot's mentality under new boss David Moyes.

"There have been a couple of emotional moments," Ferdinand said. "The manager's announcement was like a bolt out of the blue. No one was expecting it. It disappointed a lot of us but I understand the manager's reasons.

"He has had a great stint and an unbelievably successful period. He instilled great qualities in the club, and we must carry that on."